Volunteers come out in scores for 9th Annual Bethpage Turkey Drive

BETHPAGE — Fresh turkeys, non-perishable goods, and a great deal of holiday spirit were present Friday at the 9th Annual Bethpage Turkey Drive.

The yearly event sponsored by Bethpage Federal Credit Union, benefits Island Harvest, a food bank with four locations across Nassau and Suffolk counties.

"We’re bringing in well over 2,000 turkeys in one day and thousands and thousands of pounds of food, and just getting the word out is really important. You know, we're fighting the big fight trying to end hunger, but we can't do it alone," said Island Harvest Food Bank CEO Randi Schubin Dresner.

Volunteers, both young and old, packed boxes and loaded up trucks to help feed 300,000 families this thanksgiving.

FiOS1 News Morning Anchor CJ Papa was among the scores of volunteers.

"That's what we're all doing here, helping out people who need it during the holiday season, and every day ‘cause food insecurity is such a big problem here on Long Island and elsewhere in the Tri-State area," Papa said.

"You know, whatever you do. You know, you just gotta get back to the community. You make it, you've gotta give back," said Brian Froelich of Wantagh. He said he personally dropped off 120 turkeys from Stew Leonards, which is donation he's been making for the past five years

But in addition to doing their part, volunteers also reflected on what they're most thankful for this holiday season.

"I'm thankful for my family and my health," said Lily Fischer of Deer Park.

"I'm thankful for collecting all the turkeys from everyone," said Levittown resident Victoria Sepulveda.

"To be able to give back to the community, it's what it's all about and we're just grateful for everyone to donate today," said Danielle Sepulveda of Levittown.